Francis P. Jonas

Francis Peter Jonas, 83, of Red Wing, died Saturday, February 24, 2024 at Hastings Senior Health and Living surrounded by his family. He was born May 19, 1940 in Red Wing to Peter and Hazel (Goplen) Jonas. He attended Red Wing Schools, graduating from Red Wing Central High School, class of 1958. He worked at several jobs before starting at the Red Wing Shoe. He retired in 2002 after nearly 35 years. On December 3, 1966 he married Kathleen Diercks at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Red Wing. In 1978 they moved to a hobby farm in Welch where they made their home until 2019 when they returned to Red Wing.

Francis always enjoyed farming and his John Deere tractors. When he was young, he looked forward to the summers he spent on his uncle’s farm. He belonged to the Phantoms Car Club and loved driving classic cars, especially his “57 Chev.”

Francis enjoyed being with his family and attending his grandchildren’s events. He had a great sense of humor and could often be found visiting with friends over a cup of coffee. 

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Kathleen; three sons, Corey (Cheryl) of Northfield, Troy (Olga) of St. Paul Park, and Timothy of Frontenac; 6 grandchildren, Muranda (Caleb) Smith, Whitney Weed, McKenzie (Isaac) Malecha, Ryan, Collan, Connar Jonas and 1 great-grandchild, Wrenn; 2 sisters, Phyllis (Edward) Berktold and Ann Whipple; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial service will be 11 a.m., Friday, March 1, 2024 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church with Rev. Amy Larson officiating. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m., Thursday, February 29, 2024 at the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel and one hour prior to the service at church. Burial will be at Belvidere Union Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to the church or the charity of donor’s choice. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com